Contact: Kevin Kavanaugh Director of Public Affairs (773) 478-6613 kkavanaugh@nursinghome.org

June 26, 2001

1. Protect seniors from the sun. Many seniors are on medications that make them very susceptible to the burning rays of the sun. Just a few minutes in the hot sun can cause very serious burns. Remember that even on a cloudy day, or when sitting in a shaded area, an elderly person can become easily sunburned. As a precaution, sun block should be applied to all seniors before going outside, even for a short period of time. Apply this sun block at least 15 minutes before going outdoors.

2. Have seniors wear the right clothing. Wearing a hat that shades the face and covers the head is advised, along with a pair of sunglasses. A baseball cap or hat with wide brim works best; sun-visors may shade the face, but do not protect the scalp and ears from burning. A lightweight, long-sleeved shirt or blouse can keep the sun's rays off of a senior's arms. Those who are sensitive to the sun should also cover their legs and avoid wearing shorts. Encourage these individuals to substitute lightweight slacks instead of wearing shorts, dresses, or skirts outdoors.

3. Be aware of difficulties in light adjustment. As people age, their eyes take longer to adjust from light to dark. When helping an elderly person indoors, remind this person to remove his/her sunglasses before entering a building. It is also a good idea to pause for several moments once inside the door, so that the person's eyes will have time to adjust to the diminished light.

4. Watch out for heat exhaustion. Keep your eyes open to the dangers of heat exhaustion, which is a state of weakness produced by the loss of fluids and salts from the body. Common symptoms include cool, clammy skin; slightly elevated temperature; rapid pulse; shallow and quiet breathing; and tense or contracted muscles. If you suspect heat exhaustion, keep the individual quiet, bring this person into a cooler environment, and increase fluid intake. Consult a physician immediately.

5. Supply adequate fluids. It is very important to make sure that seniors have enough fluids when spending time outdoors. The best type of drink is water. Stay away from drinks with caffeine because these beverages dehydrate the body. Be aware that seniors often refuse something to drink because they fear they'll have to use the bathroom more frequently and don't want to "become a burden." Water helps regulate bathroom use more normally. Consider giving seniors water bottles (such as those used by athletes) to carry with them while spending time outdoors.

6. Be careful of bees and insects. Many seniors are allergic to insect bites, especially bee stings. Because of their decreased immunity, seniors can react very severely to insect bites. If a senior is allergic to bees, make sure to bring along this person's bee sting kit on an outing. A physician prescribes these kits. During late summer when bees are more of a problem, it would be wise to encourage seniors with severe reactions to bee stings to remain inside. Make sure the senior is careful when drinking out of cans because bees like to go inside. Cover openings of cans when not used, or use cups with lids and straws instead.

7. Make sure summertime foods are properly chilled. Food spoilage can cause sickness for everyone, but especially the elderly. Summer heat can spoil food very quickly. Make sure the coolers you are using can maintain the proper temperature for the length of time needed. A good rule is to never take any salad, sandwich, or dish containing mayonnaise on an outdoor picnic. Always dispose of leftover food that has been out of the cooler for more than a few minutes.

8. Utilize safe grilling techniques. When grilling chicken, hamburgers, and other raw meat, be sure to not serve food with the same utensils or on the same plates used to cook the raw meat. There are dangerous bacteria in raw meat that can be passed along on cooking utensils and plates, leading to sickness. All meat should be served well done, including hamburgers, to prevent the possibility of bacterial infection. Also, hot dogs, bratwurst, and Polish sausage should be split in half lengthwise before placing in a bun, to lessen the chances of choking.

9. Ensure adequate air conditioning for transportation. As part of the aging process, seniors are not as aware as younger people of changes in body temperature. When transporting seniors on outings, try to use a vehicle that is air-conditioned. If this is not possible, make sure that the windows are open and that there is adequate ventilation. Consider bringing chilled ice water with you during trips. It is also a good idea to take disposable washcloths along to provide cooling comfort during long, hot trips.

10. Bring along a backpack of safety items. Develop a list of necessities that must go along with you when accompanying an elderly individual on an outing. Items can include a first aid kit, bottled water, insect repellant, sunscreen, hand sanitizer, disposable washcloths, and sunglasses. Backpacks are much easier to manage when escorting an elderly person from place to place.

# # #